Thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Benue State celebrated the ‘National Day for Internally Displaced Persons’ on Monday with drums, dance, drama, and other games.
The IDPs put aside their excruciating and difficult times to engage in social activities to commemorate the day.
Some of the displaced persons who spoke to our correspondent expressed appreciation to the state government and other partners, particularly the International Organisation for Migration, for their support in alleviating their suffering.
Speaking, the acting Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), James Iorpuu, reiterated the government’s commitment to returning all internally displaced persons in the state to their ancestral homes.
He stated, “These are temporary tents; we do not intend to accommodate you here for a long time. Your situation was quite disturbing, so we felt that it is more appropriate that you stay in these tents for the time being. The Benue Government has made it very clear that it was her intention to resettle all IDPs to their ancestral homes.”
Also speaking, the Head of the International Organisation for Migration, Mediatrice Barengayabo, admonished the internally displaced persons in the state to keep hope alive as the organisation continues to build a better future for them. Barengayabo promised that the organisation would continue to assist displaced persons during their difficult times and encouraged them to remain hopeful and resilient.
She said, “Being displaced has brought many challenges, but it does not define who you are. You are important, you are valued, and you are part of our community. Even in difficult times, you show that hope can live on and that resilience can win. Please remember, you are not alone. Your strength and resilience inspire us all. Let today remind you that change is possible, recovery is within reach, and peace can come.”
Some of the IDP camps visited included Mega, Abagena, Daudu, Ichua, Ortese, and Gbanjiba in Makurdi and Guma local government areas of the state.
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